At Home With... Pandora Taylor - Interiors

Interior designer Pandora Taylor, recently recognized among the 50 Best Interior Designers, advocates for a design philosophy that eschews trends in favor of creating truly unique and personal spaces. She believes in curating interiors that are a distinct reflection of the individual, rather than adhering to fleeting styles prevalent on social media. Her approach is rooted in harvesting diverse design elements acquired over a decade in the industry, focusing on objects and aesthetics that she finds novel and inspiring. Taylor's personal residence in Brixton, a mid-Victorian four-bedroom property, serves as a testament to her design principles. She undertook a comprehensive renovation of the house, which was initially in a dilapidated state requiring extensive electrical and heating work. During the renovation, she discovered various forgotten trinkets that she integrated into the home's new narrative. The house retains its original floorboards, and scaffolding boards have been repurposed into weathered shelving in the living room, blending historical elements with practical, stylish solutions. Her childhood experiences of visiting stately homes with her mother significantly influenced her design aesthetic, which she describes as a 'hazy luxury.' These visits instilled in her an appreciation for old furniture, unique knick-knacks, and inspirational fabrics. She admired how historical homes revealed subtle, incredible details over time, with objects seamlessly integrated into their surroundings rather than overtly displayed. This influence is evident in her own home, where small portraits inherited from her grandmother, artworks of her dogs, Scrabble love letters, and a whimsical collection of cottage-shaped teapots create an eclectic yet cohesive environment. The upstairs bathroom exemplifies her unconventional approach, featuring Fornace Brioni tiles with a vibrant, almost 'Boogie Nights' hue, a color palette she had not explored before. The vanity unit, designed by Taylor, cleverly mimics a multi-drawer dresser using old trunk handles, concealing its true form as a traditional cupboard. These subtle, intricate details define her spaces, requiring closer inspection to fully appreciate. Taylor often uses muted background colors, such as Farrow & Ball's De Nimes, to allow these unique details to stand out. The living room sofa, designed by Taylor and crafted by Kassavello, further showcases her bespoke approach. She is also venturing into the design of headboards that transcend traditional rectangular forms, creating pieces like 'The Shard Headboard' and 'The Dune' that float or expand across the wall, acting as art installations rather than mere furniture. Her academic background in art history informs this idiosyncratic thinking, drawing parallels between her headboard designs and abstract expressionism's departure from two-dimensional canvases. Her design philosophy emphasizes making bold statements through subtle details, ensuring that every element, no matter how small, possesses intrinsic interest. Blue, her favorite color, is a recurring motif in her home, used as a vibrant yet understated base that ties together other colors like greens and oranges. Taylor believes in the functionality of objects but asserts that they must also be beautiful. She encourages individuals to trust their instincts when choosing items for their homes, advocating for living in a space truly loved, rather than being swayed by the opinions of potential future buyers or transient trends. Her work consistently blends traditional and contemporary elements, resulting in a fresh, youthful, and glamorous aesthetic. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignPhilosophy #PandoraTaylor #UniqueInteriors #VictorianHome #BespokeFurniture #EclecticStyle #TrendAversion

Taylor Swift, renowned for her meticulously crafted aesthetics and mood boards associated with each album, extends this dedication to her multiple homes. Her private residences, including a Tribeca townhouse, an L.A. mansion, a Nashville condo, a Kansas City estate with Travis Kelce, and a Rhode Island holiday home, are all carefully designed to reflect her unique personality and experiences. While public glimpses into her homes have become less frequent, social media and her 2020 Netflix documentary "Miss Americana" reveal a diverse and unconventional interior design style. Swift is not afraid of color, as evidenced by her Nashville condo's rainbow fantasy kitchen, which features a hand-painted backsplash reminiscent of Van Gogh's "Starry Night," baby yellow and blue cabinets adorned with flowers, and a red architrave leading to a cloud wallpaper-clad hallway. Her Tribeca loft also boasts crimson-red walls, demonstrating her comfort with bold hues. Beyond color, patterns are a significant element in her decor, appearing on pillows, rugs, and chairs. Her tastes span from old-world motifs with Latin American, Asian, Arab, and European influences to animal prints, dots, and stripes. Wallpaper is also extensively used, creating distinct atmospheres in each room. Antiques play a crucial role in Swift's home design, adding charm and character. Her interiors are filled with unique finds such as old radios, grandfather clocks, weathered chests, and worldly relics, which she reportedly enjoys curating from antique shops. The singer's love for candles is also prominent, with specific preferences like Byredo's Tree House and Le Labo's Encens 9 and Santal 26. She often displays these candles in thrifted mason jars. As a self-proclaimed "cat lady," Swift's homes are filled with cat-themed decor, including paintings of her cats as historical figures, cat teapots, ceramic cats, cat bookends, "I hope you like cats" doormats, and cat-shaped pillows, reflecting her devotion to her three kittens: Meredith, Olivia, and Benji. Oriental rugs are another ubiquitous feature in her homes, providing warmth, density, and a connection to tradition and culture through their symmetrical patterns and bold colors. One of the most eccentric elements is the multi-colored silk-draped ceiling in her Nashville condo, seen in "Miss Americana." This majestic arrangement, typically associated with grand events, hangs over her dining room table, complemented by an imposing crystal chandelier. Star lanterns, both traditional paper ones in her Nashville condo and modern glass and brass versions in her L.A. home, add a whimsical touch. Literature also heavily influences her spaces, with books, including large art and lifestyle volumes and antique copies, found throughout her homes, adding character and an intellectual aesthetic. As a prolific songwriter, pianos and guitars are essential fixtures in every home, including two Steinway & Sons grand pianos from the early 20th century in her New York and L.A. residences. Velvet upholstery, particularly in shades of violet, maroon, and caramel, is another preferred material, lending a touch of luxury to her couches and armchairs. Finally, personalizing her spaces with memories is paramount, as Swift adorns her walls with gallery collections of photographs of herself, family, friends, and cats. She creatively mixes photographs with various artwork and memorabilia, using frames of different styles, sizes, and orientations to create visually engaging displays. Bone inlay furniture, an ancient Indian technique, introduces an unexpected oriental influence, appearing on ottomans, console tables, and smaller decorative items, showcasing intricate geometric patterns. Ultimately, Taylor Swift's interior design philosophy emphasizes individualization, encouraging homeowners to find their signature style and experiment to create a home that is uniquely their own. #TaylorSwift #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #CelebrityHomes #EclecticStyle #Antiques #ColorfulInteriors #PersonalizedDecor #LuxuryHomeDesign

Interior designer Traci Connell, recognized as a 2022 Best Designer, shares insights into her personal home, which she inhabits with her husband, Michael McDonald. Their residence, marked by distinctive architectural features like a C-shaped floorplan, triangular windows, and angled ceilings, previously housed a series of architects. Connell's design philosophy for her own living space prioritizes a "neutrals and natural" aesthetic, diverging from the vibrant palettes she often employs in her professional work. She describes her home as a place that "breathes a sigh of relief," filled with blacks, whites, creams, and subtle hints of greens and camel tones. This approach allows her to unwind from the constant creative demands of her profession, where she is frequently surrounded by color. A core aspect of Connell's design strategy involves a strategic blend of high-end, custom-made pieces with more affordable, ready-made items from large retailers such as Crate & Barrel, CB2, and Ikea. She emphasizes that while her clients seek custom designs, certain foundational and utilitarian items can be sourced from big-box stores without compromising the overall sophisticated look. This combination prevents the space from feeling overly formal or "stuffy," creating an environment that is both visually appealing and highly practical. Connell explains that everything in her home is meticulously curated, showcasing how accessible items can be elevated when paired with bespoke elements. The couple moved into their home four years prior, just before their wedding. Following a house fire, they embarked on a multi-phase renovation, transforming the adversity into an opportunity for fresh design. Despite the fire, Connell preserved original elements like the brick floors. She maintained her neutral color scheme, selectively introducing rich pops of color, such as deep greens or aubergines, in unexpected areas. Her rationale for a predominantly neutral interior is that the vibrant personalities and attire of guests often introduce enough color, aligning with her desire for a relatively quiet and serene backdrop. Connell highlights several specific design choices throughout her home. In the kitchen, original features like the hood, range, and silestone countertops were retained, while cabinetry was redone and striking rift-cut wood details were added. She incorporated Olympia white marble for the islands and backsplash, a personal indulgence. The dining room, in contrast to the overall neutral theme, features a dramatic grasscloth wallpapered ceiling, reflecting Connell's inclination to "push limits a little bit" as a designer. The family office embraces all-black walls, made possible by abundant natural light, and includes colorful original art, a vintage Sutherland desk, and lacquered green bookcases from Scout Design Studio. The master bedroom showcases a black-and-white aesthetic with bedding from Peacock Alley and Harlequin fabric accent pillows, alongside nightstands from Currey & Co. and lamps by Arteriors. The bathroom features a distinctive wallcovering that mimics tile and a durable porcelain flooring, completed with a Stone Forest sink and a Made Goods mirror. The family room, a testament to her love for nature and neutrals, is bathed in warm ivory tones, complemented by exposed brick floors and various plants. It features a custom sectional by Hickory Chair, swivel chairs from Four Hands, and a Feizy rug, along with a beloved bar area where Connell and her husband enjoy their "Martini Friday" tradition. The article includes a Q&A section where Connell elaborates on her philosophy of mixing high and low-priced pieces, stressing the importance of removing overly popular mass-market items from design presentations to maintain a unique, custom aesthetic for her clients. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #TraciConnell #DallasHomes #NeutralPalette #LuxuryDesign #AffordableDecor #HomeRenovation #DesignPhilosophy

The article delves into the world of window treatments through the insights of luxury London-based interior designer Pandora Taylor, who shares her preferred sources for curtains, blinds, and other window dressings. It emphasizes the transformative power of window dressing in shaping an interior design scheme, whether through sheer café-style lace panels or opulent velvet curtains. The piece aims to demystify the process of selecting window treatments, offering expert guidance from Taylor's personal 'Little Black Book' of suppliers. Pandora Taylor highlights several key suppliers and their unique offerings. She frequently turns to Lewis & Wood for curtains, praising their soft linens, particularly the Oaksey Linen, for its depth of color and suitability for both traditional and contemporary settings. She notes that their larger-scale patterns work effectively with expansive windows, providing either a bold statement or a subtle backdrop. For custom-made and highly customizable options, Taylor recommends Thorp of London (formerly Bernard Thorp). This supplier offers a broad range of styles that can be tailored in terms of color and fabric, allowing for precise integration into diverse design projects. Taylor specifically mentions using their Stellar fabric for bedroom curtains in her Hampstead Penthouse project. When it comes to truly bespoke and unique window treatments, Nest Design is Taylor’s choice. This company specializes in patchwork designs, combining various fabrics to create one-of-a-kind pieces. These designs often draw inspiration from the architectural features of the property, such as arch motifs or existing tile work, providing a cohesive and personalized aesthetic. Taylor recounts her experience using Nest Design for large, distinctive Crittall windows in her Bermondsey Penthouse project, where ordinary window coverings would not suffice. For hardware, Taylor consistently uses Made by The Forge for curtain poles. She appreciates their handmade, wrought iron poles for their character, subtle texture, and smart appearance in both traditional and modern spaces, preferring their non-shiny finish. For café curtains, Mark Lewis Interior Design is her go-to for well-crafted, simple yet elegant poles. For the café curtains themselves, she suggests Linen & Letters for traditional linen and broderie anglaise options, and Soane’s Scrolling Fern in Linen Lawn for a more decorative, lightweight, and privacy-enhancing sheer, particularly suitable for bathrooms. Finally, the article mentions Guy Goodfellow Collection as a source for fabrics that Taylor frequently revisits. She highlights the Fez Weave for its excellent drape and subtle, multi-colored design, which aids in harmonizing various colors within a room. Another favorite is the Olive Sacking fabric, valued for its soft colorways, thick woven texture, and effectiveness as an accent fabric, often paired with Lewis & Wood's Oaksey Linen for borders. The article concludes by emphasizing that Taylor's selections cater to both timeless design preferences and current curtain trends, reminding readers that curtains can be utilized creatively beyond just windows to enhance different areas of the home. #InteriorDesign #WindowTreatments #Curtains #DesignersSourcebook #PandoraTaylor #HomeDecor #LuxuryInteriors #BespokeDesign #FabricSelection

Taylor Swift acquired a multi-level penthouse apartment in Nashville for nearly $2 million in 2009. Originally an ultra-modern bachelor pad, Swift, then 20, undertook an 18-month gut-renovation to transform the 3,240-square-foot, three-bedroom condo into a whimsical and maximalist living space. She described the inspiration behind the design as a blend of “Tim Burton-Alice in Wonderland-pirate ship-Peter Pan” themes, reflecting her creative and imaginative personality. Upon entering the penthouse, guests encounter a vibrant and eclectic interior. The living room features colorful wallpaper and a koi pond, housing live fish, which sits beneath a wrought-metal spiral staircase. This staircase leads to a human-sized bird cage, a feature Swift designed herself and filled with pillows and blankets, considering it her most comfortable retreat. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the corner duplex offer views of the Great Smoky Mountains, contrasting with the elaborate interior design. The foyer is adorned with frames of brightly colored paper flowers and a six-foot topiary rabbit. The walls, a mix of brick and colorful wallpaper, display photographs of Swift with her friends and family, reflecting her desire to be surrounded by loved ones. Notably, above a massive stone fireplace, a framed photo of Kanye West interrupting her 2009 VMA acceptance speech is displayed, with Swift’s personal annotation: “Life is full of little interruptions.” The award itself is also placed nearby. The apartment’s design extends to its vaulted ceilings, with one section draped in billowing curtains and another painted with an indigo night sky. Various colorful crystalline stars, shimmering chandeliers, and vibrant curtains adorn the window-lined walls. A more casual sitting room is furnished with a maroon couch, vintage wood furniture, and numerous knick-knacks, including collections of old bottles and antique books on carefully curated bookcases. A large wood dining table and a bar area with cushioned, colorful chairs define another section, with faded Persian rugs layered over oak hardwood floors. The open-concept kitchen, seen in Swift’s “Miss Americana” documentary, maintains the home’s eclectic style. It features a heart-tiled backsplash, rounded archways, and cabinets painted in different shades of blue, red, and yellow. Hand-painted floral designs of varying colors and sizes decorate each cupboard, and her stainless steel ovens are covered with stickers, complementing her collection of multi-colored plates and bowls. A substantial wood island with a black and gold hood is a central feature of the kitchen. In contrast to the vibrant common areas, Swift’s second-story bedroom is designed as a serene sanctuary, primarily decorated in white. Photos shared on her Tumblr showed her cat on a plush, cream-upholstered bed frame. The bedroom walls are covered in tan-and-white floral wallpaper, and several vintage-looking mirrors hang above the bed. White, tiered curtains provide privacy at the windows, matching the bedside table lampshades. This Nashville penthouse is one of several properties in Swift’s extensive real estate portfolio, which also includes an $80 million portfolio, a $50 million NYC compound, and a saltbox house in Rhode Island, along with another Nashville property, the Northumberland Estate, acquired in 2011, where she spends most of her time in Music City. #TaylorSwift #NashvillePenthouse #HomeDesign #CelebrityHomes #AliceInWonderlandInspired #MaximalistDecor #InteriorDesign #RealEstate #EclecticStyle

Interior designer Lilly Taylor recently undertook a full renovation of her West Nashville home, a residence she built with her father, John Gianikas, eight years prior. The home is situated on a property that borders Richland Creek and the Greenway, offering a secluded feel and scenic views of the creek and surrounding landscape. Taylor's design philosophy, which she applied to her own home, centers on creating classic, comfortable, and carefully curated interiors that are both sophisticated and approachable. Her approach incorporates organic and balanced elements, blending old and new, raw and refined, with a strong emphasis on texture and tone to achieve a bespoke feel. The goal is for her designs to appear organic and not overly stylized, utilizing antique pieces and custom textiles to add depth. The renovation encompassed the main floor, including the mudroom, powder room, laundry room, dining nook, kitchen, and the primary suite, as well as Taylor’s office and her daughter’s nursery. The primary objective of the renovation was to introduce warmth and more organic materials throughout the spaces. This involved extensive painting, updating lighting fixtures, adding millwork, incorporating wallpaper, and designing custom textiles. Taylor aimed to make the house feel cozier and more enveloping than it had previously, often employing a technique she calls "color-drenching" to create moody and cozy atmospheres in several rooms. Among the various redesigned spaces, Taylor particularly favors the kitchen, bedroom, and her daughter’s nursery. The nursery served as the initial inspiration for the entire home renovation. It features a Sanderson wallpaper with subtle blush tones, which then influenced the color palette and finish selections for the rest of the house. Taylor layered textures to create a dreamy space that is sophisticated yet playful, reflecting her own childhood memories of her bedroom. She hopes her daughter will experience similar nostalgia for her room in the future. For the primary bedroom, Taylor selected a warm and calming off-white paint with green undertones. Despite the room's large, vaulted ceiling, the chosen color makes the space feel serene and moody without being dark. Textile choices also contributed to the warm ambiance, with bedding and drapes switched from white to ivory, allowing a tapestry-like headboard fabric to become a focal point. Taylor notes that the room evokes a sense of peace, highlighting the importance of a well-designed primary bedroom for mental well-being, a principle she often shares with her clients. This peaceful and cozy motif is consistently woven throughout the entire home, establishing a sense of serenity, comfort, and style. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #WestNashville #LillyTaylor #CustomInteriors #CozyDesign #OrganicMaterials #ColorDrenching

British designer Bethan Laura Wood resides in a 575-square-foot apartment in a 1925 Art Deco building in East London, reflecting her vibrant and unconventional design aesthetic. Her home is an extension of her professional work, which is characterized by a bold use of color, texture, and a blend of industrial materials with artistic references. The apartment features powder pink stairwells, mint green window frames, and baby blue accents, providing an appropriate backdrop for her colorful creations. Inside, Wood’s living space is a dynamic display of peach, pistachio, and mauve walls, complemented by geometric rugs and a collection of unique objects. These include Pyrex lamps shaped like floral bouquets, a side table made from extruded pastel plastic, and various pieces she has designed or acquired. Wood emphasizes color as her primary language for interpreting places, drawing inspiration from regional palettes such as London's earthy grays and Venice's saturated blues. Her work often incorporates industrial materials like laminate, manipulating them to imitate other substances and exploring themes of globalism and authenticity through design history. Her current exhibition, "Ornate," at Milan’s Nilufar Gallery, draws inspiration from diverse sources including Japanese kimono fabrics, Victorian boudoirs, and insect anatomy. The exhibition features pieces like scalloped aluminum cabinets, glass light fixtures resembling hard candies, and an aluminum and brass headboard with shimmering gold and purple squiggles. Wood's living room is a visual feast, showcasing both her own designs and works by other artists and designers. Notable pieces include the Royal Daybed by Nathalie Du Pasquier and George Sowden, and a circular, jellyfish-like green, yellow, and blue resin lamp by Gaetano Pesce. A woven jacquard tapestry, designed by Wood and inspired by stained-glass windows in Mexico City, covers an entire wall, alongside an earth-toned laminate dining table with geology-inspired marquetry and a totemic light fixture made of stacked beaker-esque forms, produced with Italian glassblower Pietro Viero. Collaboration is central to Wood's practice, and many items in her home are products of partnerships or exchanges. Her collection extends into a narrow hallway adorned with hats and handbags hanging on Murano glass hooks, and artworks covering the walls. Her bedroom features an Ultrafragola mirror by Ettore Sottsass and a neon glass light by Jochen Holz, illuminating a 1970s floral textile acquired during a trip to Brazil. A small, sunny library, dubbed her "room for dreaming," houses art books, animal figurines, glass sculptures, and wooden busts, including a birthday card from her mentor, Martino Gamper. Throughout the apartment, Wood masterfully combines high design with evocative everyday objects found during her travels or at London flea markets. She deliberately positions pieces to create dialogues, such as a multicolored rope mask by Bertjan Pot near a painting of a knight in psychedelic swirls. She also notes the connection between a jar of "pickled" balloons by Saelia Aparicio and a poster by Scottish Pop artist Eduardo Paolozzi, whose motifs she frequently references. Wood's passion for collecting and creating began in childhood, influenced by her mother's accumulation of eclectic items. While her minimalist father preferred these objects to be hidden, Wood's home openly displays her collections, which she views as a material record of her life's experiences, travels, and relationships. Living surrounded by pieces from friends and fellow makers provides her with comfort and connection, especially during times of isolation. #BethanLauraWood #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #ColorfulInteriors #ArtDeco #DesignerHome #ContemporaryDesign #LondonDesign #ArtisticLiving

Mandy Drew, an interior designer, implemented her philosophy of elevated design in her own primary residence, creating a sophisticated, timeless, yet contemporary living space. The 5,500-square-foot home, located in Tampa, Florida, underwent a renovation that began in 2020 and concluded in 2022. The two-story house features five bedrooms and seven bathrooms, exuding an aura of opulence and boldness. Drew, alongside her husband, two children, and three golden doodles, aimed to balance aesthetic appeal with practical family needs. The renovation process was particularly challenging as it coincided with the end of the pandemic, during which Drew was also managing four other construction and renovation projects. She drew inspiration from numerous homes, integrating various elements to create unique and cohesive rooms throughout her residence. The design predominantly utilizes a neutral color palette, accented with stark contrasts of black and white, and bold, masculine touches. A prominent feature is the extensive use of marble, which is present in all bathrooms and the kitchen, contributing to the luxurious feel of the home. Drew's personal style is characterized by polished grandeur and elegance, subtly incorporating neoclassical elements. While the color scheme is largely restrained, deliberate splashes of color are introduced, such as lush greenery found throughout the home, complemented by green living room curtains, and a soft pink vanity in a shared bathroom. Black, white, and gold are consistently used as dominant elements, contributing to a harmonious and sophisticated ambiance. Drew describes the overall style as transitional, emphasizing its timeless and classic qualities. Key areas within the home highlight this design approach. The living room seamlessly connects to an open-concept kitchen, allowing ample natural light to flood the space. A spectacular bar at one end of the living room is designed for entertaining guests. Dark masculine elements in these areas are harmoniously balanced with bright whites and soft neutrals, creating a well-rounded and inviting atmosphere. The master bedroom features a custom corner couch, perfect for reading or relaxation, bathed in natural light. An ornate fireplace in the master bedroom adds a sense of grandeur and warmth, with dark tones on the fireplace itself, mirrors, and seating contrasting with modern, sleek white lines that transition smoothly into the flooring. The strategic placement of greenery throughout the room further enhances the living environment, striking a balance between classic and modern aesthetics.

Steven Tan, the president of SM Supermalls, showcases his meticulously designed home, which reflects his global experiences and creative vision. Having lived in Paris, Taipei, and Shanghai, Tan drew inspiration from a modernist Parisian aesthetic, fulfilling his lifelong fascination with French culture. His home subtly transports visitors to the Paris of his dreams, a nod to his Francophile nature. Tan, who holds an MBA from the Paris School of Management, was even recognized by the Embassy of France as an outstanding alumnus. Tan shares his multi-level home with his life partner, Dos Quong, and their two silver-grey poodles, Khloe and Kylie. The home exudes good energy, bathed in natural light and filled with music, movement, and plants. The couple describes their home as an amalgamation of cherished memories from their childhood and influences from their extensive travels. This approach is evident in the unique blend of elements throughout the space, such as the subtle, special scent that permeates the rooms. The design process for their home was a collaborative effort. Upon entering, guests are greeted by stunning grey Breccia marble floors with a subtle leather finish, a shade that serendipitously matches their poodles’ fur. The open-plan layout demonstrates a strong sense of order, with every space thoughtfully utilized. An architectural firm was engaged to bring their vision to life, and the couple worked closely with suppliers and contractors to execute the interior design. Every detail, from the selection of materials to the placement of objects, was carefully considered. The couple emphasized that communication was vital throughout the building and decorating process. They continually discussed their preferences and referred to photos and notes from their travels over the past decade to streamline their design references. They even spent a month analyzing their daily habits to ensure the home's flow aligned with their lifestyle. Dos Quong, proprietor of Florian Studio, contributed his creative insights, making the decor a truly collaborative venture. They meticulously chose each piece, ensuring mutual agreement on its placement, viewing their home as a continuously evolving, lifelong project influenced by their travels. Locally, Studio Dimensione is a preferred source for their home furnishings. Tan, recognized as one of Tatler’s Asia’s Most Stylish in 2022, applies his fashion sensibility to his home design, valuing clean lines, color plays, and luxurious fabrics. He sees fashion and living as harmonious concepts, injecting an element of the unpredictable into his interiors. The front entry features a handmade Portuguese oak console with British racing green lacquer and polished brass pulls, adorned with books and fresh flowers, and an RM de Leon artwork gifted by Hans Sy. The neutral-toned living room combines brutalist and mid-century pieces, including a custom sofa, an Arne Jacobsen Egg armchair, and a Warren Platner for Knoll, complemented by cowhide and zebra rugs from Africa and sleek Lumina Dot pendant lamps by Foster and Partners. The global influences extend to a vase from Georgia (the country, not the American state). The dining area boasts a double-height ceiling with a customizable metal and fluted glass chandelier, designed to resemble the northern lights the couple once saw. It is paired with a Bo Concept Augusta dining table and Fritz Hansen Series 7 chairs. The kitchen, from Valcucine’s Forma Mentis line, features richly paneled wood in cool browns, angel skin white cabinet doors, and honed Carrara marble counters. Cookbooks hint at their culinary passion, and a pendant light by Occhio Mito Sospeso hangs above the kitchen counter. The powder room offers a delightful surprise with Arabescato marble flooring, Ice Jade marble for the sink wall, Venetian Marmorino plaster, and an antique mirror from a Parisian flea market. Crittal-style windows ensure natural light, while Russian Oak and glass stairs lead to a lower-ground entry accented by a cobalt blue terracotta candelabra from Mexico and a vintage steel pendant lamp from Italy. The garden, designed in a New Perennialist style, incorporates endemic plants and trees against a backdrop of Turkish limestone and Ceppo Italian marble. The rooftop lanai features a Renor Marquila marble and limestone checkered floor, with Draceana plants for privacy, offering views of green fields. Tan’s home is a living, breathing environment, constantly evolving, where form and function intersect. It is a testament to his well-traveled and well-lived life, reflecting both his and Quong's style and substance. #StevenTan #TatlerHomes #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #ModernistArchitecture #GlobalInfluences #LuxuryLiving #ArtfulHome #DesignInspiration

Hollyoaks actress Tamara Wall has provided a glimpse into her Cheshire home, which she shares with her fiancé Gareth Jones and their cats. The residence is characterized by a spacious kitchen, a comfortable living room, and a well-appointed outdoor seating area. Wall frequently posts images of her home on Instagram, showcasing its various features and ongoing transformations. The interior design of Wall's home is eclectic, incorporating quirky prints and modern elements. One room is currently undergoing a significant renovation, with new carpet being installed, and Wall has documented this process on social media. The bathroom features a large bathtub, providing a relaxing space. Throughout the house, neon lights and fresh flowers are prominent decorative elements, reflecting Wall's aesthetic preferences. Her kitchen is large and functional, equipped with an island unit and marble countertops, suitable for preparing meals. A Banksy-inspired canvas adds an artistic touch, and a sizable pool table offers entertainment. The garden is a notable feature, designed as an outdoor living area with thatched chairs, blankets, and neon flamingos. An overhead heater ensures comfort in cooler weather, making the space usable year-round, particularly relevant during periods of lockdown. The living room is styled as a zen space, adorned with Buddhist-inspired trinkets, candles, and a bean bag chair. Despite the presence of white walls and carpets, the room maintains a cozy ambiance through the use of brown sofas and red accents. The bedrooms are designed with a more dramatic flair, incorporating dark color palettes and baroque prints. The furniture in the home also serves as comfortable spots for her cats, which Wall often photographs. Another dining area is present, featuring a Star Wars print on the wall. Wall, who previously appeared on EastEnders, has established a comfortable and personal home with Jones. The couple got engaged in July 2018 during a trip to Ibiza, an event Wall announced on Instagram with a picture captioned “#engaged”. Wall has played Grace Black on Hollyoaks since 2013. Early in her tenure, her character faced potential removal due to unpopularity with viewers. Channel 4 executives expressed concerns, leading to a workshop with the show's producer, Bryan, to redefine the character. Through this collaborative process, Wall's character was redeveloped, allowing her to remain on the show. #TamaraWall #CelebrityHome #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #Hollyoaks #CheshireHome #NeonLights #GardenDesign

This article details the transformation of a 5,000-square-foot new-build house in southwest London, where interior designers James Arkoulis and Saskia Howard of Howark Design created a vibrant and family-friendly home. The homeowners, particularly their three children aged 7 to 11, drew inspiration from the whimsical interior of the kids' film Paddington Bear. This unconventional reference led to a design ethos focused on fun, color, and practicality for an active family life, moving away from the previous developer-grade finishes like glossy gray kitchen units and marble floors. The design process involved a deliberate shift towards a more colorful and energetic aesthetic. The designers had to navigate the homeowners' desire for brightness, sometimes even pushing for bolder hues than initially suggested. A key element was the extensive use of color, exemplified by the kitchen's bright yellow cabinets, painted with Farrow & Ball’s Babouche. This choice, while requiring convincing, ultimately achieved the desired warm and balanced effect. The kitchen, a large 30-foot space, was ingeniously divided into three distinct zones—an island, a dining setup, and a lounge area—using a bespoke glazed partition and strategic furniture placement, preventing it from feeling overly long and ensuring each section served a real purpose. Storage was a high priority and a significant investment. Bespoke solutions were implemented throughout the house, including a large media unit and library shelves in the basement playroom. This area, spanning the entire footprint beneath the kitchen, was designed with bold colors for the media unit to house board games and art supplies, while a ladder rail provided access to an expanding book collection. The designers also made clever cost-saving decisions, such as retaining the existing wardrobe boxes and updating them with new fronts to create a uniform, custom look. Artisan craftsmanship was incorporated, particularly in the principal en suite, where space was reallocated to expand the dressing room. This expansion included a unique upholstered niche for the children to relax in while their mother prepared. Hepzabeth from the Textile Wall Company created this cozy space, fully upholstered with batons for a soft and enveloping feel. Other impactful, albeit smaller, details included replacing harsh chrome hardware with antique brass in the bathrooms to align with the house’s classical proportions and swapping recessed lighting for softer wall sconces and flush mounts. Several design decisions, like the boldly colored stair runner spanning four levels, were considered risks at the time but ultimately contributed to the home's distinctive character. The project showcases how a creative and playful inspiration, combined with thoughtful design and material choices, can transform a standard new-build into a personalized, functional, and joyful living space tailored to a family's unique dynamics and aesthetic preferences. #HomeTour #LondonHome #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #FamilyHome #KidsInspiredDesign #BespokeFurniture #KitchenDesign #PlayroomDesign #StorageSolutions #TextileWall #Renovation

This article offers an exclusive tour inside the extensively renovated Dallas home of interior designer Mary Beth Wagner. Situated in University Park, a neighborhood known for its blend of cafes, boutiques, and architectural appeal, the 6,800-square-foot, five-bedroom residence exemplifies modern luxury while retaining classic elements. The home underwent a comprehensive year-long renovation, transforming it from a dark, traditional 1990s structure into an open, light-filled space. This involved reconfiguring the entire interior, moving and adding doors and windows, removing and relocating walls, installing a covered patio, and redesigning the pool area. The exterior remained largely unchanged, save for a fresh coat of paint, but the interior was stripped down to the studs, effectively making it a ground-up build. Mary Beth Wagner collaborated with Christy Blumenfeld of Blume Architecture, Blake Evenson of Hudson Construction Group, and Design Consultant Curtis Burlbaw to bring her vision to life. Designing her own home presented unique challenges for Wagner, given her exposure to diverse design styles in her professional work. However, she embraced the opportunity to be highly creative, as the house's original lack of a specific style provided a blank canvas. The resulting aesthetic is described as traditional yet eclectic, emphasizing comfort and functionality over rigid formality. The home features a mostly traditional layout, with the dining and living rooms greeting visitors upon entry. A central study was intentionally opened up to improve flow for entertaining, yet it retains the flexibility to be closed off for more intimate gatherings. Throughout the home, thoughtful design choices are evident. Limestone floors were installed in the central hallway and family room, while other areas feature hardwoods, contributing to a cohesive yet varied floor plan. Wallpaper plays a significant role in defining individual spaces, with distinct patterns chosen for rooms like the dining area, which features a feminine touch, and a powder bath, adorned with a unique 'Good Fortune' wallpaper by Ferrick Mason. This particular wallpaper was a deliberate replacement for an earlier, overly bright choice, reflecting Wagner's careful curation of elements. The living room showcases vibrant peacock blue velvet couches, a boldly patterned rug, and traditional furnishings, creating a dynamic space. The home is designed with multiple living areas, catering to both family life and entertaining. Ample seating arrangements are a recurring theme, encouraging gatherings, reading, or quiet relaxation. A quaint rose-colored table in the breakfast area serves as a spot for backgammon or reading, while a modern light fixture adds whimsy to the kitchen. The butler's pantry, with its clean lines and a touch of color from its wallpaper, demonstrates an evolution from its previous dark, built-in heavy iteration to a more open, bar-integrated space. The primary bedroom combines simplicity and practicality with an interior archway, exposed brick, and classic furniture, while the master bath features another striking wallpaper surrounding a freestanding tub. An innovative adaptation of the original architecture led to the creation of a functional third floor, now housing a home gym, an office, and a guest bedroom, adorned with playful pink and purple wallpaper and a lucite chair at a small desk. #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #DallasHomes #LuxuryLiving #EclecticDecor #PastelInteriors #DesignInspiration #UniversityPark

Ina Garten, the renowned Barefoot Contessa, cherishes her library in her two-bedroom Upper East Side apartment in New York City, describing it as the "coziest room in the house." This intimate space serves as her personal sanctuary for reading, watching television, and enjoying coffee and desserts after dinner parties. The apartment itself was re-envisioned by architect and interior designer Daniel Ramouldez after Garten and her husband, Jeffrey, acquired it in 2016. Intriguingly, the furniture in the library was repurposed from the living room of her previous New York City residence, also designed by Ramouldez, who noted that the pieces fit this new apartment with a dramatically improved aesthetic. The library's distinctive character is largely defined by its deep purple walls. Garten revealed that she meticulously sampled between 100 to 200 shades of purple before settling on "Approaching Storm" by Benjamin Moore, a grayed purple with a vibrant quality. This intense hue also complements the central purple-and-black ottoman, which is covered in a unique horsehair fabric from Old World Weavers, originally utilized as a rug. The room's seating arrangements include an olive green velvet sofa and a pair of yellow linen armchairs, both upholstered in fabrics from Clarence House, adding layers of texture and color to the space. Burnt orange accents are strategically incorporated to introduce warmth. Ramouldez highlights that the upholstery choices were deliberately made to harmonize with the diverse colors of the book bindings lining the shelves. This thoughtful coordination prevents any single element from appearing garish, contributing to the room's balanced and sophisticated ambiance. The library houses an extensive collection of books covering a wide array of subjects, such as cooking, home decor, entertaining, gardening, ornithology, and travel. Despite the potentially moody nature of the deep colors and rich textures, the designer emphasizes that the room maintains a light and inviting feel, drawing parallels to the balanced color palettes found in old Renaissance paintings where nothing stands out discordantly. This careful curation ensures the library remains a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing retreat for Garten. #InaGarten #HomeLibrary #InteriorDesign #NYCapartment #CelebrityHomes #PurpleDecor #DanielRamouldez #HomeDecor #BenjaminMoore

The article details the design process and outcome of a custom-built home in Dallas for Chris and Lynsey Synek, whose personal style, particularly Lynsey's "couture" fashion, heavily influenced the interior design. Faced with a limited real estate market offering homes that were either too old or too small, the Syneks decided to purchase a lot and embark on a custom build. They engaged designer Philip Thomas Vanderford of Studio Thomas James, Janson Luter Architects, and builder Faulkner Perrin to create their ideal home. The design aesthetic for the house was directly inspired by Lynsey Synek's curated and edgy fashion sense, characterized by precise editing and a specific color palette. This influence translated into the home's selection of deep charcoals, dusty whites, spicy mustards, eggplant, and sophisticated pinks, some enhanced with high-gloss finishes. These colors were balanced with natural elements like oak beams, flooring, and cabinetry, extending even to the office ceiling. Vanderford's approach focused on holistic design, ensuring seamless transitions and optimal mobility between spaces. The couple's preference for having all main living areas on the first floor guided the layout. A central feature of the home is the living room, designed as the nexus for family and guests, and considered one of the Syneks' favorite areas. To prevent the large room from feeling either overcrowded or empty, Vanderford implemented a "rule of two," using pairs of significant furniture pieces such as 85-inch settees, midcentury modern chairs, and coffee tables. This strategy aimed to improve circulation and flow, making the room feel both inviting and functional without appearing cartoonish, a common pitfall in oversized Texas rooms. The article also provides a room-by-room breakdown, highlighting specific design choices and sourced items. The entryway features an inky, textural wallcovering from National Solutions and custom black-and-white tile, complemented by a custom Riloh chandelier and a St. James Lighting lantern. The living room includes pieces from Paul Matter and Baker-McGuire, with a Stark rug. The family room, serving as a more informal entertaining space, contains chairs by Julian Chichester, a Visual Comfort & Co lamp, and a coffee table from Theodore Alexander. The kitchen is characterized by a wall of windows, warm oak cabinetry, and Bianco Superiore quartzite, furnished with vintage stools in Élitisfabric and Riloh pendants. Further sections detail the butler's pantry with Hapny hardware, a breakfast nook featuring a custom banquette and a Riloh chandelier, and a dining room painted in high-gloss Benjamin Moore Ciao Bella, accented with Carlucci draperies and a Jonathan Browning Studios chandelier. The wet bar, located opposite the living room, is equipped with Fyrn barstools. The powder room showcases terrazzo tile from Ann Sacks, Visual Comfort & Co sconces, and Phylrich fixtures. The primary bedroom features a supersized custom headboard and a pitched ceiling, with a Visual Comfort & Co chandelier and Thibaut wallcovering. The main level owners' suite and an outdoor cabana are also mentioned, completing the comprehensive tour of this custom-tailored Dallas residence. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #LuxuryHomes #CustomBuild #DallasRealEstate #InteriorArchitecture #ColorPalette #FurnitureArrangement #PhilipThomasVanderford

The article offers a detailed look into the Atlanta home of interior designer Whitney Durham, owner and lead designer of Whitney Durham Interiors, and her husband Nathan Durham. Purchased in 2013, the 1932 cottage-style home, measuring 3,800 square feet with four bedrooms and three bathrooms, has undergone several updates to reflect Whitney's evolving design aesthetic while retaining its original charm. The Durhams initially bought the property with existing additions, such as an owner’s suite, an expanded kitchen, and a screened-in porch, which they later enclosed in 2016 to create a sunroom. In early 2020, a pool and cabana were added to the backyard, enhancing the outdoor living space. Whitney's design philosophy centers on injecting color, mixing old and new, and combining high-end and budget-friendly pieces to create a curated, joyful atmosphere. This is evident throughout the home. For instance, the foyer features an antique Turkish rug and an abstract painting by Michelle Armas, complementing the home's original Gothic blue front door. The living room showcases new sofas from Ellenburg Chair Company alongside antique mirrors and a vintage zebra hide, while an abstract painting by Elaine Burge and a two-tier chandelier by Aerin from Circa Lighting serve as focal points. The formal dining room was converted into a sitting room, furnished with custom swivel tub chairs, a vintage Lucite chandelier, art by Renee Bouchon, and a large abstract painting by Whitney herself. This space also incorporates Schumacher fabric for window treatments and Moroccan ottomans from B.D. Jeffries. The guest suite, which was the original owner’s suite, features bold coral walls with Hale Navy accents, beds from SWOOX Curated Consignment, a vintage dresser, and art by Teil Duncan and Christina Baker. The sunroom, created from the enclosed porch, provides a family gathering space with a custom sectional, swivel chairs, layered rugs, and an open connection to the kitchen. The kitchen itself has been updated with white quartz countertops on the island, a classic white subway tile backsplash, and vintage Turkish runners. Lighting fixtures by Sean Lavin and art by Elaine Burge further enhance the space. The owner’s suite is characterized by high ceilings, a collection of art, an antique canopy bed, and lamps made from vessels passed down from Whitney's grandmother. The children's bedroom features custom headboards, bedding from Serena & Lily and Ballard Designs, and monogrammed pillows, while their shared bathroom includes new mirrors, shiplap, and a whimsical cowboy painting by Elaine Burge. The playroom offers ample seating with a custom sofa and leather club chairs, adorned with their sons' artwork. The article highlights the collaborative effort in the home’s renovation, with landscape architect Graham Pittman working on the backyard. Whitney emphasizes that a home should be a source of happiness, filled with meaningful and carefully chosen pieces, reflecting her consistent approach to interior design. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #AtlantaHomes #WhitneyDurhamInteriors #HomeRenovation #CottageStyle #EclecticDesign #ArtCollection #FamilyHome

The article provides an intimate look into the Sunfish Lake home of antiques dealer Robert Riesberg and his wife, Christine Hartman, which doubles as both their residence and a by-appointment-only gallery for Riesberg's business. Their Federal-style house, built in 1925, is characterized by a blend of traditional design and warm hospitality, furnished with museum-quality 17th, 18th, and early 19th-century antiques, art, objects, and rugs. Riesberg, with over 50 years of experience, emphasizes buying pieces he would personally want to keep, noting that this passion drives his successful career. The home features a series of formal rooms, including a front parlor with a mahogany drum table, sideboard, and a 1760 cherry New England flip-top secretary desk, with walls painted in Benjamin Moore’s Rosy Apple. A light-filled formal dining room and gallery, added by Riesberg, is used for parties and family gatherings, showcasing French Louis XV rococo console tables with rare brèche d’alep marble from approximately 1760. The exterior of the home maintains its Federal-style architecture, while the kitchen, though the least formal space, is adorned with 18th-century Windsor chairs and Delft tiles depicting manganese figures from the same period. Creative design solutions are evident throughout, such as a small closet ingeniously converted into a walk-in bar with a Dutch door. The sunporch, featuring terrazzo floors and shelves filled with Delftware, opens to a grape arbor, offering a serene space. The fireplace mantel and paneling were custom-designed based on Connecticut fireplace patterns, symmetrically decorated with blue-and-white 18th-century Delftware. The central hallway boasts ash and walnut flooring modeled after traditional French parquetry, complemented by 19th-century oil landscapes, a late 18th-century portrait, and a Regency commode from around 1710. Riesberg’s study, designed with Connecticut inspiration, features millwork painted in a custom green and houses a substantial collection of books and catalogs on antiques, art, landscaping, and architecture. The article also includes five tips from Robert Riesberg and Christine Hartman for incorporating antiques into one's home. These tips encourage individuals to discover their personal taste by visiting various sources like museums and antique shops, and building a file of preferred items. They suggest taking inventory of existing belongings to identify pieces that don't align with one's aesthetic or function, thereby creating space for new acquisitions. The couple advocates for broadening one's scope beyond furnishing a room strictly by a singular period, encouraging the mixing of contemporary furnishings with antique gems to create a space that reflects individual taste and personality. Riesberg advises understanding the craftsmanship of antiques, particularly those made before the machine age (pre-1840), to appreciate their design details and value. Finally, they recommend taking a slow approach to building a collection, emphasizing that a few beautiful, well-chosen pieces are more valuable than a multitude of mediocre ones, and that truly beautiful homes evolve in stages. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #Antiques #FederalStyleHome #VintageDecor #HomeTours #LuxuryInteriors #CollectingAntiques